The perceived impact of pornography consumption on heterosexual monogamous couple relationships

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the perceived impact of pornography consumption on heterosexual monogamous couple relationships. A mixed methods approach was used to collect the data. Quantitative findings indicated that males were more exposed to pornography more than females and consumed it more frequently. Males were also more likely than females to perceive pornography as positively influencing sex life, attitudes towards sex, and sexual knowledge. In contrast, females were more likely than males to perceive pornography as negatively impacting sex life and attitudes towards sex. Quantitative findings also suggested that younger age groups were more likely to have positive perceptions of pornography than older age groups. The frequency of pornography consumption also influenced perceptions of pornography. To collect qualitative data, six semi-structured interviews were carried out with pornography users who were or had been in a relationship. Reflexive Thematic Analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data (Braun & Clarke, 2019). Four main themes emerged: ‘Gender and Pornography use’, ‘Context of Pornography Use’, ‘Negative Perceptions of Pornography’, and ‘Positive Perceptions of Pornography’. Males and females differed in the type of pornography they consumed. The context in which pornography is used also impacts its perceived effects on the couple. The role of technology and pornography use during adolescence also emerged from the findings. Findings suggest that pornography was perceived to negatively impact the individual and couple relationship as well as set unrealistic expectations in a relationship. Pornography was also perceived as a source of information and as a way of increasing intimacy between the couple. The quantitative and qualitative findings were triangulated. Recommendations for further research, policy, and clinical practice were mentioned.